Psychological Well-Being, Substance Use, and Internet Consumption Among Students and Teaching Staff of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine: Risk and Protective Factors Associated with Well-Being and Dissatisfaction

Abstract

Background: Veterinary students experience high levels of mental health issues. Objectives: To analyze substance use, internet consumption, and mental health factors among students and academic staff of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, identifying factors associated with well-being and dissatisfaction. Methods: A total of 226 respondents participated, including 177 students (78.3%) and 49 staff members (21.7%). Data were collected between 30 October 2024 and 14 January 2025 using an adapted EDADES-based survey assessing substance use (alcohol, tobacco, electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDSs), anxiolytics, and illicit drugs), internet habits, and psychological well-being among participants. Binary logistic regression was applied to identify factors associated with dissatisfaction. Results: Students exhibited higher binge drinking rates, greater ENDS consumption, and more problematic internet use than staff. Significant gender differences were observed, with females reporting greater emotional distress and a higher need for psychological support. Water pipe use (OR = 2.79, 95% CI = 1.45-5.38), anxiolytic consumption (OR = 2.31, 95% CI = 1.08-4.92), and excessive internet use (OR = 4.83, 95% CI = 1.66-14.1) were associated with lower overall satisfaction. Age was inversely associated with dissatisfaction (OR = 0.96, 95% CI = 0.94-0.98), and females were significantly more likely to report dissatisfaction (OR = 2.79, 95% CI = 1.45-5.38). Conclusions: Veterinary students exhibited higher psychological distress than teaching staff. Implementing targeted interventions to address substance use and internet habits is needed in order to enhance psychological well-being.